What are the uses of MS pipes?

MS pipes (mild steel pipe) are a general-purpose pipe made of low-carbon steel. Due to their excellent cost-effectiveness and adaptability, they are widely used in construction, industry, agriculture, infrastructure and other fields. MS pipes have the characteristics of low cost, high strength, excellent processing and welding properties, sufficient supply, and complete specifications. This article mainly introduces the main use classification and typical application scenarios of MS pipes:

1. Construction and Infrastructure

(1) Building Structure

Scaffolding: Temporary support structure, which needs to be light and have strong load-bearing capacity.
Building Frame: Steel frame structure of factory and warehouse, which needs to be rust-proofed.

Guardrails and Stairs: Stair handrails, balcony guardrails, etc.

(2) Water Supply and Drainage System

Tap water pipes: Commonly used in the early days, MS pipes are now mostly replaced by galvanized pipes or PVC because they are easy to rust.
Fire pipes: Sprinkler system main pipes.
Rainwater drainage: Building roof drain pipes and underground drainage channels, which need anti-corrosion coating.

2. Industrial Applications

(1) Oil and Gas

Low-pressure pipelines: MS pipes are suitable for short-distance transportation of non-corrosive media (such as crude oil and natural gas).
Structural support: used for derricks and platform support pipes, which need to be galvanized or painted for corrosion protection.

(2) Chemical and Pharmaceutical

Non-corrosive fluid transportation: such as air, inert gas, and low-temperature water. If the medium is highly corrosive, stainless steel pipes should be used instead.
Ventilation ducts: factory exhaust systems, low cost and easy to weld.

(3) Machinery and Manufacturing

Hydraulic systems: low-pressure hydraulic oil pipes, high-pressure requires seamless steel pipes.
Conveyor rollers: production line material conveying brackets.

3. Agriculture and Irrigation

Irrigation water pipes: farmland sprinkler systems, economical and practical, but require regular maintenance to prevent rust.
Greenhouse structures: greenhouse frames (galvanized MS pipes are more durable).

4. Public Utilities and Municipal Engineering

Power cable protection: underground cable casing (requires anti-corrosion treatment). 

Light Poles: Support structures for street lighting (typically hot-dip galvanized).

Traffic Sign Poles: Supports for highway signs.

5. Automotive and Transportation

Chassis Components: Structural tubing for trucks and trailers, requiring high strength and weldability.
Exhaust Systems: Exhaust pipes for some low-end vehicles are susceptible to corrosion at high temperatures, while high-end vehicles use stainless steel.

Limitations of Using MS Pipe:

1. Corrosion Susceptibility: Galvanizing, painting, or regular maintenance are required, especially in humid chemical environments.
2. Inadequate Performance in High-Pressure/High-Temperature Environments: Alloy steel pipes should be used for temperatures exceeding 300°C or for high-pressure applications.
3. High Hygiene Requirements: Stainless steel or food-grade plastic pipes are recommended for drinking water systems.

Conclusion:

MS pipes are a popular choice in construction, industry, and agriculture due to their low cost, high strength, and ease of fabrication. However, their susceptibility to corrosion requires coating or regular maintenance. When selecting a pipe, consider the media properties, environmental conditions, and budget to weigh alternatives (e.g., galvanized vs. stainless steel).

Read more: MS Pipe and GI Pipe Difference or China Seamless Pipe Manufacturer & Exporter List